# Chapter XLVIII explained — Miss Marjoribanks

> Chapter companion for Miss Marjoribanks by Margaret Oliphant.

## What happens

The election day arrives, and Lucilla anxiously watches from her window as the polling proceeds. Mr. Cavendish initially leads, but the revelation of his past involvement with Barbara Lake turns public opinion against him, leading to Mr. Ashburton's victory. Lucilla's suspense is heightened by Aunt Jemima's incessant questions, and she remains composed despite the turmoil.

## Themes in this chapter

### Class and Social Hierarchy

Barbara Lake's lower status and her tin dress contrast with the ladies at the windows, highlighting class divisions.

### Community and Gossip

The town's reaction to Mr. Cavendish's rumored marriage to Barbara Lake sways the election.

### Performance and Appearance

Lucilla maintains a calm exterior while internally anxious; Mrs. Woodburn performs mockery for her party.

## Character check-ins

### Lucilla Marjoribanks

Watches the election from her window, struggles with suspense, and maintains composure.

### Aunt Jemima

Constantly asks about the poll, irritating Lucilla with her questions.

### Mr. Cavendish

Initially leads the poll but loses support due to gossip about marrying Barbara Lake.

### Mr. Ashburton

Visits Lucilla between services, agitated but hopeful as the election turns in his favor.

### Barbara Lake

Observes the election in her tin dress, still interested in Mr. Cavendish's fate.

### Mrs. Woodburn

Celebrates Mr. Cavendish's early lead with her brother, mocking the opposition.

## Key lines

> My dear aunt, I can see nothing and hear nothing, and you know as much about what is going on as I do

Lucilla tells Aunt Jemima she knows as little as she does, showing her frustration.

_Lucilla's patience wears thin under Aunt Jemima's constant questioning._

> It is something quite unlooked-for, and which I never could have calculated upon

Mrs. Woodburn mimics Mr. Ashburton's manner, mocking his surprise at the early poll numbers.

_Mrs. Woodburn's theatrical imitation amuses her party._

> the man who was capable of marrying Barbara Lake could ever be the man for Carlingford

The town believes a man who would marry Barbara Lake is unfit to represent them.

_Gossip about Mr. Cavendish's relationship with Barbara Lake damages his candidacy._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/miss_marjoribanks_se/chapters/xlviii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/miss_marjoribanks_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/miss_marjoribanks_se/chapters